Thorup: "The fans have helped us to believe"
Final home match of the calendar year
First Team
12.12.2024, 15:00
FC Augsburg will take to the WWK ARENA pitch for the last time in 2024 when they face Bayer 04 Leverkusen on Saturday, 14th December (kick-off 15:30 CET). Head coach Jess Thorup shares his views on the strong home form so far this season, while looking forward to the upcoming clash with the reigning German champions.
“There has been a real upturn in performances,” analysed Thorup with regard to the team’s most recent run of fixtures. The coach is happy with both the attacking and defensive efforts that his side has displayed, of which the hard-fought 2-2 draw away to in-form Frankfurt was a prime example. “We performed well despite the busy schedule of late, so that gives us confidence,” explained Thorup, who is feeling optimistic going into the clash with third-placed Bayer Leverkusen.
Home form vs. in-form
A high-quality opponent awaits FCA in Leverkusen. The Werkself have recorded three Bundesliga victories in a row and remain on an unbeaten run away from home that spans an impressive 23 matches. “That streak just goes to show the enormous quality that they possess,” judged Thorup. “They are strong on the ball, play attractive football and come into the game with wind in their sails.”
Despite the strength of their opponents, FCA will look to play with courage, something that Thorup expressed. “We cannot simply concentrate on defending. Of course, we will need to remain compact, but we also want to have some controlled possession of our own and to play our own football.” The strong support from the fans in the WWK ARENA of late has provided the team with an additional boost. “The fans have helped us to believe that we can win against any opponent,” explained the coach, recalling the 2-1 home win over Borussia Dortmund.
Kabadayi out for several months
There is good news regarding Dimitris Giannoulis, Samuel Essende, Ruben Vargas and Marius Wolf, who all returned to training on Thursday. Fredrik Jensen is also slowly increasing his workload, but is not yet available to face Leverkusen.
Yusuf Kabadayi will be out for several months following an operation on his lateral meniscus. The surgery went successfully and the 20-year-old has already been able to begin his rehabilitation. Mads Pedersen (groin surgery), Finn Dahmen (shoulder injury) and Masaya Okugawa (thigh) are also all unavailable for Saturday.
